The JBL Junior 470NC headphones are a well-rounded choice for parents looking to balance safety, comfort, and functionality for their young ones’ audio experiences. Designed with children in mind, these headphones excel at delivering high-quality sound with volume control and thoughtful features that prioritize safety and ease of use.

One of the most significant features is JBL’s Safe Sound technology, which caps the volume at 85dB. This is a thoughtful limitation since many parents worry about the long-term effects of high-volume listening on young ears. This volume cap helps prevent accidental exposure to loud sounds, a particularly important feature for kids who might unknowingly increase the volume to unsafe levels. Additionally, Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) offers a noticeable advantage by reducing background noise, enabling kids to enjoy their music or audio without distraction. Although the ANC is effective, it’s worth noting that it may not block out all environmental sounds—parents may find it’s less robust than adult models, which could be noticeable in very loud settings like airplanes or busy urban areas.

Parents will also appreciate the parental control features accessible through the JBL Headphones app. In the app, parents can set maximum volume limits and control listening durations, which is an excellent way to ensure kids aren’t overexposed to prolonged listening sessions. The app also includes a tracking feature, so parents can review usage patterns and encourage breaks if necessary. For younger children, this level of control is a reassuring addition that helps manage screen time and protect hearing. An added bonus is the personalized reminders function, where parents can record their own voices to remind children to take breaks, which adds a comforting, personal touch to the experience.

Comfort and design are other strengths of the JBL Junior 470NC. The headphones have a soft-padded headband that’s comfortable for extended listening sessions, and the ear cups are appropriately sized for smaller heads, which prevents the usual “slip-off” problem kids sometimes face with larger headphones. The build quality feels durable, which is especially important for a device meant for younger, potentially less careful users. Oversized buttons make it easy for kids to navigate playback functions independently, giving them a sense of autonomy without the frustration of tiny, hard-to-use controls. In terms of portability, these headphones fold flat, which is handy for travel or on-the-go listening. However, a carrying case would have been a nice addition, as it would help keep the headphones protected when tossed into a bag or suitcase.

Battery life is another highlight, offering up to 50 hours of playback time without ANC and around 20 hours with ANC on. This extended battery life means less frequent charging and longer use between charges, which can be a relief for parents. Additionally, the headphones support USB-C quick charging, providing about three hours of playtime with just a five-minute charge. This feature can be especially helpful during trips or busy days when extended downtime isn’t convenient.



On the fun and personalization front, JBL adds a playful element by including stickers with the headphones, allowing kids to decorate and personalize their set. This small addition can make the headphones feel more like “theirs” and encourages kids to express themselves, adding a layer of engagement beyond just functionality. The packaging itself is cleverly designed to transform into a stand for devices, which could be handy for kids who watch videos or use tablets, adding value to the purchase.

In summary, the JBL Junior 470NC headphones excel at combining safety, sound quality, and kid-friendly design in one package. With parental controls, excellent battery life, and a comfort-focused design, they’re a top choice for families looking for a well-rounded pair of headphones for children. While the ANC could be more powerful, and a carrying case would add convenience, these are minor issues in an otherwise outstanding product. For parents who want to ensure their kids have a safe, enjoyable, and controlled audio experience, the JBL Junior 470NC is a thoughtful and feature-rich option that delivers on its promises.